The question of what is the best self-defence art in real life is a complex one, and the answer may vary depending on the situation and the individual's personal preferences and abilities. That being said, several martial arts are often cited as effective for self-defence in real-life situations.
One such martial art is Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ). BJJ focuses on ground grappling and submissions and is designed to allow a smaller, weaker person to defend themselves against a larger, stronger attacker.
BJJ practitioners learn how to control and submit their opponents using joint locks and chokes, and the art emphasizes leverage and technique over raw strength. In a self-defence situation, BJJ can be particularly effective in close-range encounters or situations where the attacker tries to take the defender to the ground.
Another martial art that is often recommended for self-defence is Krav Maga. Krav Maga is a system of self-defence and hand-to-hand combat that was developed by the Israeli Defense Forces.
The art emphasizes practical techniques that are designed to be effective in real-life situations, including strikes to vulnerable targets, defensive tactics against common attacks, and techniques for escaping from holds and grappling situations.
Krav Maga also incorporates training in situational awareness, de-escalation, and mental preparedness, which can be important factors in self-defence situations.
Muay Thai is another martial art that can be effective for self-defence. Muay Thai is a striking-based art that originated in Thailand and is known for its powerful kicks, knees, and elbows.
Muay Thai practitioners learn how to strike with power and precision, and the art emphasizes conditioning and endurance training.
In a self-defence situation, Muay Thai can be particularly effective in stand-up encounters or situations where the defender needs to create distance or defend against multiple attackers.
Boxing is another martial art that can be effective for self-defence. While boxing is primarily a sport, it is also a highly effective self-defence art.
Boxers learn how to deliver powerful punches with speed and accuracy, and the art emphasizes footwork, head movement, and defensive tactics.
In a self-defence situation, boxing can be particularly effective in stand-up encounters or situations where the defender needs to quickly and decisively end the fight.
Finally, aikido is another martial art that can be effective for self-defence. Aikido is a Japanese martial art that focuses on joint locks and throws and is designed to use an attacker's momentum against them.
Aikido practitioners learn how to redirect an attacker's energy and use it to control or immobilize them. In a self-defence situation, aikido can be particularly effective in situations where the attacker is grabbing or holding onto the defender.
Ultimately, the best self-defence art in real life may depend on a variety of factors, including the individual's physical abilities, the situation they are in, and their personal preferences and goals.
It is also important to note that while martial arts can be effective tools for self-defence, the best way to stay safe is often to avoid dangerous situations altogether.
This may include practising good situational awareness, avoiding risky areas or activities, and developing strong communication and de-escalation skills.